The Federal Government has commenced the prosecution of suspects accused of involvement in the Yelwata community killings in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, marking a key step toward accountability for one of the state’s deadliest attacks in recent years.
On Monday, the suspects were arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdul-Malik at the Federal High Court in Abuja, with the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), leading the government’s case.
Court proceedings showed that nine suspects are standing trial on a 57-count charge, which is being read to them with the assistance of an interpreter.
The arraignment follows earlier assurances by the Office of the Attorney General that those responsible for the violence would be brought to justice, a move officials say underscores the government’s resolve to confront threats to national security.
“The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to the protection of the lives and properties of all as enshrined in the constitution,” said Kamarudeen Ogundele, Special Adviser to the AGF and Minister of Justice.
Ogundele noted that the case was the result of a “painstaking investigation and collaboration by government agencies.”
The June 2025 attack on Yelwata shocked the nation after gunmen stormed the community, killing scores of residents and displacing hundreds, triggering protests and fresh demands for stronger security measures across Benue State.
Security agencies had earlier confirmed the arrest of several individuals in connection with the incident, leading to Monday’s court appearance. Proceedings are expected to continue as the charges are formally taken and the trial moves forward.
